Workplace technologies cause stress (technostress) that can potentially strain work-life balance and enable cyberslacking behaviours, according to new research by Professor Christy M. K. Cheung of the Department of Management, Marketing and Information Systems at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU).
"While technology aims to make our work lives easier, it can paradoxically breed new sources of stress and unproductive behaviour patterns," said Professor Cheung.
Key findings
The research reveals that work-family conflict is a key mechanism linking technostressors with reduced job and family satisfaction.
The study also shows two types of ICT technostressors Hindrance technostressors that damage work-life balance and satisfaction, and Challenge technostressors that can motivate employees to improve their work efficiency.
The research found that insufficient technology training and loose workplace ICT policies and norms led to 40% of cyberslacking (personal internet use at work), and negatively affected job performance.
Business implications
Leaders must address chronic hindrance technostressors, establish transparent policies and procedures, train employees on expectations of proper technology, and consider personality traits in the hiring process.
“To reap the full benefits, organisations must proactively address the 'dark side' of workplace technologies by cultivating supportive cultures, implementing tailored training programmes, and focusing on building an inclusive culture that encourages open conversations on new technologies that become part of our work lives,” said Cheung.
